Located in the heart of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Mitchell Park Domes offer an opportunity to experience different environments from around the world. This botanical garden features three distinct biomes, each showcasing a different type of ecosystem from around the world. The three domes include: the Tropical Dome, the Desert Dome, and the Showcase Dome which changes throughout the year. Opened in 1967, these futuristic glass domes lay over 23 acres and are home to hundreds of plant species that cannot be found anywhere else in the region.
The Tropical Dome
The Tropical Dome is probably the most captivating of the three because it offers a warm escape during the cold Wisconsin winter. The dome recreates a humid and warm environment with tall palm trees, flowers, exotic ferns, and vibrant orchids that are found in rainforests all over the world. As you walk through the dome, you’ll find yourself emerging in the rich smell of the flowers and the sound of flowing water from small waterfalls. A cool feature of this Dome is the river that flows through the forest environment with a waterfall and Koi fish swimming in it. The Tropical Dome is an immersive experience where visitors can truly feel like they have been teleported to a tropical place far away from home.
The Desert Dome
In contrast to the humid tropical rainforest, the second dome is a dry, sunny landscape that represents the desert. When entering the dome, visitors are greeted by a hot yet beautiful scene of cacti, succulents and other plants one finds walking around in a desert. A cool feature about this dome is the pond that sits in the center of it. There used to be birds flying around in the dome but recently the birds have left.
The Show Dome
The third dome is the Show Dome and unlike the two permanent domes, this one is a very versatile space where a visitor can find seasonal exhibits and special events. The Show Dome is changed multiple times throughout the year with different themes like steam engine trains, outer space, and other cultural events.
The Mitchell Park Domes offer a great place to go to get some sun in the cold winter, to get some photography practice, or just to enjoy nature. The Domes offer a rare opportunity to explore different ecosystems from around the world no matter the season.
